Postmortem: 2010 Central Michigan Football Season

It's time to look back on all the MAC football teams this season. What went right, what went wrong, and what will happen in the future. Now up: the Central Michigan Chippewas.

Final record: 3-9, 2-6 MAC

Good things: Well, they won the Aluminum Compass with victories over WMU and EMU. 389.8 yards per game ranks third in the MAC behind NIU and WMU. In five of their losses — Temple, Northwestern, Bowling Green, Miami, Navy — they were a total of 19 points short. That Navy game, as identified by Geeves, was one of the thrillers of the year. So was the Miami game, even though the game was decided by one blown coverage. And for what it's worth, Dan Enos had the best W-L record of any new hustle belt coach.

Bad things: It was extremely under the radar, but while running Zurlon Tipton was a small spark plug at the end of the season, he did miss the first two games via suspension. They were tied for last in the MAC in turnover margin (-11) with EMU. The defense came up with only four interceptions. Worst of all, Dan LeFevour was cut by the Bears and has to languish in depth chart hell in Cincinnati. They were the Anti-Miami; many of their stats were pretty good except for the record.

One-sentence summation: That was one hell of a dynasty hangover.

Looking to 2011: Some CMU fans may not admit it, but Ryan Radcliff showed the progression throughout the year that should cause optimism. Changing schemes is hard. So will be replacing those linebackers, Matt Berning and Nick Bellore, who were two of the best in the league. On the other side Cody Wilson will be a fantastic receiving weapon as he had a breakout year in '10. Hopefully Jahleel Addae can mature as a defensive back and try to create some turnovers in the secondary, as well as having someone on the defensive line try to force some quick throws. Basically, the offense will get there. Now try to tighten up the defense and win the close games.